Economic activity in the US nonmanufacturing sector began 2017 at a slightly slower — but still strong — growth pace, according to the Institute for Supply Management’s non-manufacturing index released today.

ISM’s non-manufacturing index edged down in January to a reading of 56.5 from December’s reading of 56.6. However, the employment portion of the index rose to a reading of 54.7 in January from December’s reading of 52.7.

Readings above 50 indicate growth.

Bloomberg reported the reading fell short of the median forecast of its survey of economists, which called for a reading of 57.0. The report “still reflects strong growth,” Anthony Nieves, chairman of the ISM non-manufacturing survey, said on a conference call with reporters. There are still a good number of orders in the pipeline, and overall optimism about policy changes under President Donald Trump, he said.